Here’s a few words from Lisa Lunghofer, Board President of Maryland CASA Association. Last year, Lisa raised over $2,500 to support our mission of ensuring all of Maryland’s abused and neglected children their right to a safe, permanent home:

I’ll be honest–I used to be terrified of fundraising. But four years ago as the newly elected MD CASA board president, I didn’t have a choice. I was the pace car for Team CASA. I needed to set the pace and lead by example. Abused and neglected children in Maryland were depending on me, and I wasn’t about to let them down.

In 2014 I set my goal high–$2,500–and got to work emailing everyone I could think of, asking them to support a great cause. Guess what? They did. I was amazed and humbled by friends’ and colleagues’ generosity.

Here’s what I learned:

1.) Remember first and foremost you’re not asking people to give YOU money; you’re asking them to make a charitable donation to a great cause you believe in.

2.) People donate when they’re asked directly. Don’t be afraid to ask directly.

3.) People feel good when they know they’re supporting a worthy cause, particularly a cause someone they know believes in. Give them the opportunity to feel good by asking them to support your run.

4.) Be real. Tell people why this cause is meaningful to you.

5.) Don’t be shy about asking twice. People are busy. It’s okay to send a follow-up email reminding them that if they wanted to make a donation, the time is NOW.

Ultimately, this isn’t about you or me or the people on our email contact lists. It’s about vulnerable children who need a voice. Set an aspirational fundraising goal. Aim high for the thousands of children in Maryland who are depending on you and me.

This year, Lisa has set her goal even higher. Interested in supporting her run? Click HERE